Last chance to have a say on mulloway

The clock is ticking for those intending to make a public submission on proposed management options to promote the recovery of mulloway in NSW.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Acting Commercial Fisheries Director, Doug Ferrell, said submissions close on 16 October 2012.

"I urge anyone with an opinion on the management of the future of mulloway to have their say before the 16 October deadline, using the online submission form," Dr Ferrell said.

"Research has shown that mulloway has been overfished and that a recovery program is needed to help rebuild the population to a sustainable level.

"A group of experts and key stakeholders formed by DPI have come up come up with a range of alternative management actions that would promote the recovery of mulloway stocks while minimising economic and social impacts.

"All of the options are outlined in a discussion paper available on the DPI website.

" Dr Ferrell said all fishing sectors that impact on mulloway have a role to play in assisting with the recovery of the species.

 "Given the importance of mulloway to all fishers, the Government is providing an opportunity for everyone to have their say on the proposed management arrangements," he said.

"The various options have been developed with input from recreational, commercial, conservation and Indigenous stakeholders, as well as fisheries scientists and managers.

"This public consultation period is an important step to ensure the best overall option is implemented."

To find out more about the Mulloway Recovery Program and make an online submission go to the DPI Have your say on mulloway recovery web page or follow the links from www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au .

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